German Foreign Minister Warns of Russian Imperialism While Maintaining Diplomatic Channels

On September 29, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul told Slovak counterpart Juraj Blanar that “the greatest threat to the freedom of our continent comes from Moscow. The greatest danger to Europe is (Russian President Vladimir) Putin’s belligerent imperialism.” He added that questioning this assessment “lacks solidarity” and is “simply irresponsible.” Wadephul framed the statement against Slovakia’s left-nationalist government, led by Prime Minister Robert Fico, which has publicly doubted the EU and NATO response to Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine and sought a more neutral stance.

Germany's Foreign Minister called Putin's belligerent imperialism the greatest threat to Europe The Straits TimesAfter speaking with Lavrov, Germany’s Foreign Minister called Sybiha and told him about the results of the negotiations

Following a bilateral meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on the sidelines of a UN General Assembly session in New York—the first such encounter since 2022—Wadephul conveyed Germany’s and Ukraine’s shared demand that Moscow end the war. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha confirmed that Wadephul warned Russia that further hostile actions against Europe would be unacceptable and reiterated Germany’s unwavering support for Ukraine. The two ministers also discussed steps to increase pressure on Russia and to bolster Ukraine’s resilience ahead of winter.

After speaking with Lavrov, Germany’s Foreign Minister called Sybiha and told him about the results of the negotiations Lavrov meets Germany’s foreign minister in New York amid strained relations — TodayPress.tv The Straits Times

Wadephul linked the Slovak debate to broader EU challenges, recalling “systemic obstructionism” previously caused by former Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, whose 16-year rule ended earlier this year. He warned that “blockages” in Brussels weaken the Union and that doubts about NATO’s deterrence “endanger all of us.” Slovak opposition parties have criticized Fico for questioning NATO’s collective defence, echoing Wadephul’s call for reliance on security guarantees.

The Straits TimesGermany's Foreign Minister called Putin's belligerent imperialism the greatest threat to Europe After speaking with Lavrov, Germany’s Foreign Minister called Sybiha and told him about the results of the negotiations

• “The greatest threat to the freedom of our continent comes from Moscow. The greatest danger to Europe is (Russian President Vladimir) Putin's belligerent imperialism,” — German Foreign Minister Johann

Germany's Foreign Minister called Putin's belligerent imperialism the greatest threat to Europe

German officials indicated that maintaining a direct communication channel with Moscow remains a priority, suggesting further high-level contacts may be arranged as the security situation in Europe evolves.

Lavrov meets Germany’s foreign minister in New York amid strained relations — TodayPress.tv